Galway East TD and Minister for Community Development Seán Canney has called on people to go the extra mile to support charities if they are in a position to do so.
Minister Canney, whose remit includes the community and voluntary sector, said: “Most of our charities rely on fundraising but the emergency COVID-19 measures mean that many outdoor fund-raising events have had to be cancelled, particularly overseas ones.
“Our charities make an invaluable contribution to society and many of them are crucial to our response to the virus.
“Alternative charitable events, such as virtual events and online challenges, that comply with social distancing are already being set up. People can also fundraise from their own homes through social media networks.
“It is great to see so much creativity. There are also alternative ways to support charities.
“For example one of our own local platforms, iDonate, which is a free service to charities, provides people with a means for setting up their own online fundraising pages.
“I am aware that many people may be under financial pressure in the current crisis but I would urge all those who can support charities to do so.”

For more information, contact Minister Canney on 086-2513639
March 23 2020